THE RACE TO NOME: Breakthrough Book

925, a diphtheria epidemic got underway in Nome, Alaska. Everything epended on a quantity of fresh serum, being rushed in. The author has been assidus in authenticating the hitherto poorly documented details of the 674 mile race that brought the serum from Nenana in almost miraculous record time -- just under (apple) days. There is much interesting information on the rugged life of Alaska in the '20's as well as the always fascinating techniques of dog sledding. However, the reader knows from the Preface onward that the race against time through all the contacts, shifts of cargo and 20 drivers in the subzero weather is successful. Newly accurate though the record may be, for those without the regional commitment, it may seem like one long, monotonous mush to a foregone conclusion. A last chapter picks up in interest with a description of the controversy that surrounded the last drive and the distribution of money to the drivers.